Washington, D.C.: U.S. Africa Command's Deputy Commander, Lt. Gen. John W. Brennan, and Ambassador Robert Scott, Deputy to the Commander for Civil-Military Engagement, recently addressed the strategic significance of U.S.-Africa security cooperation during a digital press briefing. The briefing, hosted by the U.S. Department of State's Africa Regional Media Hub, highlighted their recent engagements in Angola and Namibia, emphasizing the continued commitment to strengthening partnerships in Africa.
According to EMM, Lt. Gen. Brennan and Ambassador Scott focused on promoting stability and collective defense through cost-effective, African-led solutions that minimize direct U.S. military involvement. They underscored the importance of mutual engagement in economic development, particularly in maritime and trade sectors, as demonstrated by initiatives like transforming Walvis Bay into a regional transshipment hub in Namibia and the development of the Lobito Corridor in Angola.
During the briefing, questions from journalists across the continent were addressed. Lt. Gen. Brennan explained how AFRICOM's training and exercises are African-led and partner-driven, contrasting with other foreign influences operating in the region. He highlighted the strategic outcomes achieved through the Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) programs and large-scale exercises like African Lion and Obangame Express, which aim to bolster African military capabilities.
Ambassador Scott elaborated on the economic implications of these security initiatives. He discussed the rehabilitation of the rail line in Angola's Lobito Corridor, which has significantly reduced the time to transport goods. The ambassador also highlighted U.S. support in maritime domain awareness, such as providing technology to help Angola monitor its coastline.
The briefing concluded with discussions on the U.S. military's broader regional strategy in Southern Africa. Lt. Gen. Brennan emphasized the growing importance of Southern Africa to AFRICOM, citing efforts to expand military-to-military exercises and high-level discussions within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. Both leaders reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to empowering African countries to address security challenges independently, reducing the need for direct military intervention.
The session wrapped up with a discussion on countering misinformation efforts by foreign entities and the importance of proactive engagement in regions like Somalia, where U.S. support is aiding in counterterrorism efforts against groups like al-Shabaab and ISIS.